Admire some of Malmo's cultural highlights in the Gustav Adolf Square (Gustav Adolfs Torg). Architecture from the 19th and 20th centuries architecture, one of the city's biggest summer festivals and Christmas markets with fair-trade souvenirs make this a popular shopping and social destination.
The history of the square dates back to 1804, when King Gustav II decided to knock down the old city walls to establish a new district. The square became the central area.
The buildings around the square are impressive with their architectural style. On the north side are whitewashed French Renaissance-style houses, known by the locals as the "Riviera". On the south side is the Valhalla Palace, designed in 1901 by Swedish architect Alfred Arwidius. Neighbouring the palace is a modernist building, called the Tryggehuset (Safe House), built in 1938.
August is a great time to visit the square when the Malmo Festival is on. Experience a range of events attend a bicycle repair workshop, pitch a business idea to experts, view photography exhibitions or listen to live music and see performances. Events are free and a full schedule can be found on the official Malmo Festival website.
In December, the square fills up with the Christmas markets. Malmo has an active environmentally conscious community, so fair-trade or recycled Christmas gifts, as well as tasty organic food and beverages, feature strongly at the markets.
For a relaxing day away from the festival crowds, head to the Gamla Kyrkogarden (Old Cemetery). Browse the tombstones of some of Malmo's important residents. The cemetery is easily accessible as it connects Gustav Adolf Square to Kungsparken.
Gustav Adolf Square is located in the city centre. It is an easy walk from many of Malmo's main attractions such as Kungsparken and Castle park, both a 10-minute walk away. A 2-kilometre (1-mile) pedestrianised shopping street passes through the square from Stortorget to Triangeln. There is a limited amount of parking available, but a number of public buses stop on the east side of the square.
